Lakewood took on a festive European flair Dec. 13 and 14 as Mahall’s hosted its second annual Christkindlmarket. The event featured a variety of vendors and seasonal treats, filling the air with the scent of hot cocoa and cinnamon while families wandered under twinkling lights. From hand-painted coasters to holiday sweets, the market offered something for everyone.
Following the success of its inaugural year, Mahall’s extended the event to two days and increased the hours to share as much holiday spirit as possible.
”It was definitely a group effort! One of the owners, Cory Hajde, had a vision from his travels in Europe to bring a Christkindlmarket style to Mahall’s — with an authentic spiced mulled wine recipe, souvenir mugs, hot chocolate, local makers and artists, delicious food, and an opportunity to wander and browse in a festive atmosphere,” said Hannah Hines, organizer of the Christkindlmarket at Mahall’s.
This year’s Mahall’s Christkindlmarket featured more than 80 vendors, giving the authentic feel of traditional Christmas markets in Europe. The market transformed the beautiful 100-plus-year-old Mahall’s building into a full-blown holiday takeover, with something to offer everyone — even a surprise visit from Santa himself.
The market’s selection was diverse, ranging from knitted hats and stained-glass ornaments to various crafts and clothing. “I love local maker events. I go to every single one, and I’m always there supporting my community. In this economy, we need to be supporting small businesses,” said Emma Kelly, an avid small business supporter and Lakewood resident.
These events play a crucial role for small businesses, allowing them to sell to a community that values unique, handmade products. Many residents view these makers as the backbone of authenticity in the Lakewood community.
“It takes a lot of time, especially when you have almost 200 incredibly talented local artists and makers apply. All of the vendors are from right here in Northeast Ohio — we don’t take any corporate or chain-style businesses. The goal was to support bakers, artists, jewelry makers, vintage curators, woodworkers and more. It’s exciting that we have an opportunity to bring business to these talented folks right in our community,” Hines said.
With so many artisans vying for the coveted spots at the Christkindlmarket, organizers had their work cut out for them in determining who would get them, but the selection this year was nothing short of perfection. Vendors were eager to share the stories behind their products, often greeting shoppers’ compliments with smiles.
Many of the artisans work in crafts or food, but few specialize in books. Tucked in the corner of the Roxy, there was a unique bookstore called Nightlight Books. “We’re the country’s first disability bookstore. All our authors are disabled, chronically ill, neurodivergent, mad, deaf, blind, etc. We’ve done a few markets in Lakewood, and it’s been pretty good for us; the community seems genuinely interested in what we’re trying to do,” said Patrick Antonucci, an employee of the bookstore.
Merchants like these define the spirit of the market. Finding such specialized items is rare, but having them accessible at a local bowling alley and concert venue makes the experience special.
For the second year in a row, Mahall’s Christkindlmarket brought holiday cheer to Lakewood, offering a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. The market serves as a celebration of community and the hard work of small businesses. It is clear that the Christkindlmarket has become a local staple, and organizers hope to see the community return again next year.
